The total estimated cost of the project is €10.88 million, with most of the funding provided by the European Union. VANTAGE seeks to advance the continent’s technological and operational autonomy by delivering a modular UAV platform designed for diverse tactical missions.
The drone system will feature vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities and be equipped to carry out C4ISR tasks and kinetic operations. Its modular design allows for integration of various sensors and navigation systems, including those suited for GPS-denied environments.
“The VANTAGE project goes beyond technological innovation; it marks a strategic leap that positions Europe at the forefront of defence development,” stated Kaspars Pollaks, Director of the Defence Technology Department at LMT. “By bringing together our unique experience, expertise, and resources from across borders, we are building a future-ready capability that will strengthen Europe’s security, enhance operational flexibility, and set new standards for cooperation within the defence industry.”
Mr Pollaks also emphasised the real-world relevance of UAVs in contemporary conflicts: “As we have seen in Ukraine, UAVs play a critical role on the modern battlefield. We are honoured to lead this visionary consortium and contribute to a safer, more secure Europe.”
The VANTAGE project will run for 36 months, covering the entire development cycle from initial studies and system design to prototyping and testing. A central objective is to ensure the system’s adaptability and interoperability to maintain relevance in an evolving threat landscape.
The consortium includes eight partners from seven countries: Latvijas Mobilais Telefons SIA (Coordinator), C&V Defence, CAVOK UAS, Centro de Observación y Teledetección Espacial SAU, Vegvisir, Institutul Național de Cercetare-Dezvoltare Aerospațială “Elie Carafoli” (INCAS București), M3 Systems Belgium, and UAV Navigation – Grupo Oesía.
